Sears 944.36201 User Manual

Owner's Manual

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

3.5 Horsepower
20" Side Discharge

Model Number

944.362010

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equipment

Sears Canada, Inc., Toronto, Ontario M5B 2B8

Warranty ................................................. 2

Safety Rules ........................................ 2-4

Assembly / Pre-Operation ................... 6-7

Operation ........................................... 8-10

Maintenance Schedule ........................ 11

Maintenance .................................... 11-14

Product Specifications .......................... 12

Service and Adjustments ...................... 14

Storage ................................................. 15

Troubleshooting .............................. 16-17

Repair Parts ..................................... 18-19

Sears Service ......................... Back Cover

LIMITED ONE (1) YEAR WARRANTY ON COMPANION POWER MOWER
For one (1) year from date of purchase Sears Canada, Inc. will repair or replace at

Sears option free of charge parts which are defective as a result of material or work-
manship.

COMMERCIAL OR RENTAL USE:
Warranty on Power Mower (Gas) will be ninety (90) days from date of purchase if used

for commercial or rental purposes.

This Warranty does NOT cover:

1. Pre-delivery set-up.

2. Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower

blades, blade adapters, belts, filters and spark plugs.

3. Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent
crankshafts and the failure to operate and maintain the equipment according to the

instructions contained in the Owner's Manual.

Warranty service is available by returning the Companion Power Mower to the nearest

Sears Service Centre/Department in Canada. This warranty applies only while this
product is used in Canada.

This warranty is in addition to any statutory warranty and does not exclude or limit legal
rights you may have but shall run concurrently with applicable provincial legislation.
Furthermore, some provinces do NOT allow limitation on how long an implied warranty
will last so the above limitations may not apply to you.

SEARS CANADA, INC., TORONTO, ONTARIO M5B 2B8

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in

serious injury or death.
_,Look for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERTH! YOUR

SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_, CAUTION: Always disconnect spark

plug wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,

transporting, adjusting or making repairs.

CAUTION: Muffler and other engine

parts become extremely hot during
operation and remain hot after engine

has stopped. To avoid severe burns on
contact, stay away from these areas.

I= GENERAL OPERATION

Read, understand, and follow all

instructions on the machine and in the
manual(s) before starting. Be thor-

oughly familiar with the controls and
the proper use of the machine before
starting.

• Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the

discharge opening at all times.

• Only allow responsible individuals,

who are familiar with the instructions, to

operate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as
rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc.,
which could be picked up and thrown
by the blade.

• Be sure the area is clear of other
people before mowing. Stop machine if

2

anyone enters the area.

• Do not operate the mower when

barefoot or wearing open sandals.
Always wear substantial foot wear.

• Do not pull mower backwards unless
absolutely necessary. Always look

down and behind before and while
moving backwards.

• Do not operate the mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or

other safety protective devices in place.

• See manufacturer's instructions for
proper operation and installation of

accessories. Only use accessories
approved by the manufacturer.

• Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel
drives, walks, or roads.

, Stop the engine (motor) whenever you

leave the equipment, before cleaning
the mower or unclogging the chute.

• Shut the engine (motor) off and wait

until the blade comes to complete stop

before removing grass catcher.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.

, Do not operate the machine while

under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

o Never operate machine in wet grass.

Always be sure of your footing: keep a
firm hold on the handle and walk; never

run.

• Disengage the self-propelled mecha-
nism or drive clutch on mowers so

equipped before starting the engine
(motor).

, If the equipment should start to vibrate

abnormally, stop the engine (motor)
and check immediately for the cause.
Vibration is generally a warning of

trouble.

• Always wear safety goggles or safety
glasses with side shields when operat-
ing mower.

U.SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to slip
and fall accidents which can result in

severe injury. All slopes require extra
caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do

not mow it.

• Mow across the face of slopes: never
up and down. Exercise extreme caution

when changing direction on slopes.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.

DO NOT:

• Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches or
embankments. The operator could lose

footing or balance.

• Do not trim excessively steep slopes.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced
footing could cause slipping.

IlL CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence of children.

Children are often attracted to the
machine and the mowing activity. Never

assume that children will remain where
you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the trimming area
and under the watchful care of another

responsible adult.

• Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.

• Before and while walking backwards,

look behind and down for small

children.

• Never allow children to operate the

machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline

and other fuels. They are flammable
and vapors are explosive.

-Use only an approved container.

- Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running. Allow

engine to cool before refueling. Do

not smoke.

-Never refuel the machine indoors.

- Never store the machine or fuel

container inside where there is an

open flame, such as a water heater.

• Never run a machine inside a closed
area.

Never make adjustments or repairs with
the engine (motor) running. Disconnect
the spark plug wire, and keep the wire

away from the plug to prevent acciden-
tal starting.
Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep
equipment in good condition.
Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.

Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or

other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.

R

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.

• Never attempt to make wheel height
adjustments while the engine (motor) is

running.

• Grass catcher components are subject

to wear, damage, and deterioration,
which could expose moving parts or

Parts packed separately in carton

allow objects to be thrown. Frequently
check components and replace with

manufacturer's recommended parts,

when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and

use extra caution when servicing them.

• Do not change the engine governor
setting or overspeed the engine.

(4) Wheels

(1) Control Bar

Parts Bag contents not shown full size

(1) Discharge Guard

(1) Lower Handle

(1) Upper Handle

(1) Engine Zone

Control Cable

(4) Spacers

(1) Wire Tie

Rope Guide

(1) Upstop Bracket

4

Parts Bag contents shown full size

@

(4) Hex Bolts

3/8-16 x 1

(4) Washers 7/8"

(4) Shoulder Bolts

(4) Flange

Locknuts

3/8-16

(2) Washers 1-1/4"

(4) Locknuts

3/8-16

(2) Washers 3/4"

(2) Hex Bolts

1/4-20 x 1-1/2

(2) Hex Bolts1/4-20 x 3/4

(1) Hex Washer Head Self-tapping Screw #10-24 x 1/2

©

(5) Locknuts

1/4-20

R

_CAUTION: Do not operate this mower

without the discharge guard or an entire
approved grass catcher in place. These

guards are for your protection and are

required by the American National
Standards Institute and Consumer

Products Safety Commission.

ACAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it

cannot come in contact with plug.

Read these instructions and this manual
in its entirety before you attempt to

assemble or operate your new lawn
mower.

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is
shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in
the engine.

Your new lawn mower has been as-

sembled at the factory with the exception
of those parts left unassembled for
shipping purposes. All parts such as nuts,
washers, bolts, etc., necessary to com-
plete the assembly have been placed in

the parts bag. To ensure safe and proper
operation of your lawn mower, all parts

and hardware you assemble must be

tightened securely. Use the correct tools

as necessary to ensure proper tightness.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.

(1) 5/16" Wrench (1) Adjustable Wrench
(1) 7/16" Wrench (1) 9/16" Wrench
(1) 1/2" Wrench (1) 3/4" Wrench
When right hand or left hand is men-
tioned in this manual, it means when you
are standing in the operating position,

behind the handle.

UNPACKCARTON

1. Remove all loose parts from carton.

2. Examine all items. Compare with list
of unassembled parts and hardware.

3. Remove lawn mower housing with
care. Avoid touching blade under

housing. Always wear gloves or other
protection when working under or
lifting mower.

ASSEMBLE LOWER HANDLE

NOTE: For ease of lower handle assem-
bly, raise rear of deck and block securely.

1. Position lower handle on deck so cut-
off flat is forward as shown.

2. Align holes in handle with holes in
deck as shown and assemble 3/8-16 x 6

3/4 hex bolts, flat washers, and

Iocknuts. Tighten securely.

3. Repeat for opposite side of mower.

Flat washers Locknuts

Hex

bolts

ASSEMBLE UPPER HANDLE

1. Position upper handle over lower
handle with small hole for mounting

up-stop bracket to right side and
assemble 1/4-20 x 1-1/2 hex bolts and

1/4-20 Iocknuts. Tighten securely.

ASSEMBLE UPSTOP BRACKET

2. Position upstop bracket on the right
inside of upper handle as shown.

3. Install the hex washer head screw into
the hole in up-stop bracket and upper

handle. Tighten securely.

AS VIEWED FROM FRONT OF MOWER

Up-stop
bracket-

Hex

washer

head \ /- -_',
screw - \ \

\

Lockouts

ASSEMBLE WHEELS

Cutting height is determined by assem-
bling the wheels in one of four possible
positions on the mower housing. All
wheels must be in the same height
position for even cutting.

1. For each wheel, assemble shoulder
bolt and spacer as shown

2. Assemble 1-1/4" diameter washer
(rear wheels only) and 3/8-16 Iocknut

on inside of mower housing and
tighten securely.

1-1/4"

(rear wheel only)
Mower housing
Shoulder

bolt

3/8-16

Wheel Locknut

ASSEMBLE DISCHARGE GUARD

1. Place discharge guard on top of lawn

mower discharge opening.

2. Install two (2) 1/4-20 x 3/4 hex bolts
through housing and discharge guard,

3. Install two (2) 3/4" diameter washers

and two (2) 1/4-20 Iocknuts. Tighten
securely.

Locknut.=

Washers

ASSEMBLE ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
CABLE TO ENGINE

Cable attaches under brake arm cover,

(opposite side of engine as spark plug).

1. Straighten cable and find the end with
the small plastic fitting.

2. Hook "Z" bend fitting on inner wire of

cable into hole in brake arm of engine.

3. Align tapered end of small plastic
fitting with hole in mounting bracket
and push until fitting snaps into place.

bracket

Small plastic Brake

fitting arm

ASSEMBLE ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
CABLE TO UPPER HANDLE

Attach cable opposite upstop bracket.

1. Route cable below crossbar of lower

handle and up to control bar.

2. Hook "Z" bend fitting on inner wire into

hole in control bar.

3. Attach cable fitting to upper handle.

4. Secure cable to lower handle with

wire tie.

bar

Upper

Discharge guard

Hex

INSTALL CONTROL BAR

1. Position control bar so flattened

section with hole is on opposite side
of handle as up-stop bracket.

2. Insert one end of control bar into
handle hole on inside of handle.

Carefully push in on opposite end of

control bar and insert into hole on

opposite side of handle.

Up-stop

bracket

zone

control

cable

INSTALL STARTER ROPE

1. Put threaded end of rope guide

through hole in side of upper handle

above lower handle crossbar. Secure

with 1/4-20 Iocknut.

2. Hold control bar against upper handle
and slowly pull engine starter rope out
until it will slip into loop of rope guide.

Upper

Rope

Engine

,p bracket 7 starter rope

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND ALL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR

LAWN MOWER. Compare the iliustralJons with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with
the location of variouscontrolsand adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the

product. Learn and understand there meaning.

CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS

OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEETAWAY

_perator presence control bar

Starter handle

Engine oil cap with dipstick

Gasoline filler cap_

Discharge guard

Primer

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the American

National Standards Institute and the U,S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The blade

tums when the engine is running.
Operator presence control bar - must be

held down to the handle to start the engine.
Release to stop the engine.

Starter handle - used for starting the engine.

Primer - pumps additional fuel from the

carburetor to the cylinder for use when
starting a cold engine.

8

The operation of any lawn

mower can result in foreign
objects thrown into the
eyes, which can result in
severe eye damage.

Always wear safety glasses or eye

shields while operating your lawn mower
or performing any adjustments or repairs.

We recommend standard safety glasses

or a wide vision safety mask worn over
spectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory

for optimum performance. Speed is not
adjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

ACAUTION: Federal regulations require

an engine control to be installed on this

lawn mower in order to minimize the risk
of blade contact injury. Do not under any

circumstances attempt to defeat the
function of the operator control. The blade

turns when the engine is running.

• Your lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be positioned

behind the lawn mower handle to start
and operate the lawn mower.

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

Raise wheels for low cut and lower

wheels for high cut, adjust cutting height
to suit your requirements. Medium

position is best for most lawns.

1. Remove wheel, bolt, and hardware
and reassemble in desired adjustment

hole.

2. Reinstall wheel components in the
same order as they were before

removal. Tighten securely.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADD OIL

Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in
the engine. For type and grade of oil to

use, see "ENGINE" in the Maintenance
section of this manual.

A CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with

oil, or it will smoke on startup.

1. Be sure lawnmower is level and area
around oil fill is clean.

2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout.
Make sure that rim of spout is clean.

3. You receive a container of oil with the
unit. Slowly pour 3/4 (15 oz.) of the oil

from the container down the oil fill

spout into the engine.

4. Wait one minute to allow oil to settle.
Insert and tighten dipstick, then

remove it to check oil level.

5. Continue adding small amounts of oil
and rechecking the dipstick until it

reads full. DO NOT overfill, or engine
will smoke on startup.

6. Always be sure to retighten oil dipstick
before starting engine.

• Check oil level before each use. Add

oil if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.

• Change the oil after every 25 hours of

operation or each season. You may
need to change the oil more often

under dusty, dirty conditions.

Gasoline Engine

filler cap cap

3/8-16

Locknut

Primer

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler
neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean,
regular unleaded gasoline with a

minimum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil
with gasoline. Purchase fuel in

quantities that can be used within 30

Adays to assure fuel freshness.

CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or

fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline

near an open flame.

A CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels

(called gasohol or using ethanol or
methanol) can attract moisture which
leads to separation and formation of
acids during storage. Acidic gas can
damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or
longer. Drain the gas tank, start the
engine and let it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel

next season. See Storage Instructions for
additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.

TO START ENGINE

NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the
engine, a small amount of smoke may be
present during the initial use of the
product and should be considered

normal.

1. To start a cold engine, push primer

three (3) times before trying to start.

Use a firm push. This step is not
usually necessary when starting an

engine which has already run for a
few minutes.

2. Hold operator presence control bar

down to the handle and pull starter
handle quickly. Do not allow starter

rope to snap back.

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, release operator

presence control bar.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be
necessary to repeat priming steps. In
warmer weather over priming may cause
flooding and engine will not start. If you

do flood engine, wait a few minutes
before attempting to start and do not
repeat priming steps.

MOWING TIPS

• Under certain conditions, such as very

tall grass, it may be necessary to raise

the height of cut to reduce pushing

effort and to keep from overloading the

engine and leaving clumps of grass

clippings. It may also be necessary to

reduce ground speed and/or run the

lawn mower over the area a second

time.

• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the

width of cut by overlapping previously

cut path and mow slowly.

• For better grass bagging and most

cutting conditions, the engine speed

should be set in the FAST position.

• For side discharge lawn" mowers,

cutting in a counter-clockwise direction,

starting at the outside of the area to be

cut, spreads grass clippings more

evenly and puts less load on the

engine. To keep clippings off of

walkways, flower beds, etc., make the

first cuts in a clockwise direction.

• Pores in cloth grass catchers can

become filled with dirt and dust with

use and catchers will collect less grass.
To prevent this, regularly hose catcher
off with water and let dry before using.

• Keep top of engine around starter clear
and clean of grass clippings and chaff.

This will help engine air flow and
extend engine life.

10

.A,NTENANOESC.EDULE

AS YOU COMPLETE

REGULAR SERVICE f__ _()_r_._C-Z SERVICE DATES

Check for Loose Fasteners Ikf I1_
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher

, (If Equipped) t/ _

M Clean Lawn Mower

O Clean Under Drive Cover

W (Power-Propelled Mowers) ¥#

E Check drive belt/pulleys

R IP°wer-Pr°pelled Mowers) I_

Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade _3

Lubrication Chart I_
Clean Battery/Recharge
IElectric Start Mowers I I_ 1_4

E Check Engine Oil Level

N Change Engine Oil 1_1'1,2
G !Clean Air Filter _ 2

Inspect Muffler

a Clean or Replace Spark Plug

E ReplaceAirFilterPaperCartridge V'2

1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.
2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions,
3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.
4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

LUBRICATION CHART

The warranty on this lawn mower does

not cover items that have been subjected

to operator abuse or negligence. To

receive full value from the warranty,
operator must maintain mower as

instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made

periodically to properly maintain your
unit.

All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual
should be checked at least once each
season.

• Once a year, replace the spark plug,

clean or replace air filter element and
check blade for wear. A new spark

plug and clean/new air filter element
assure proper air-fuel mixture and help

your engine run better and last longer.

• Follow the maintenance schedule in
this manual.

BEFOREEACHUSE

1. Check engine oil level.

2. Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRI-
CATION CHART").

adjuster (on

each wheel)

guard hinge pin

(_ Handle bracket mounting pins

(_) Spray lubricant
(_) See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease
plastic wheel bearings. Viscous

lubricants will attract dust and dirt that

will shorten the life of the self-lubricat-

ing bearings. If you feel they must be
lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

graphite type lubricant sparingly.

11

Wheel

ine oil

Discharge

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Serial Number:

Date of Purchase:
Gasoline Capacity / Type: 1.0 Quarts (unleaded regular)

Oil Type (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)

Oil Capacity: 20 Ounces
Spark Plug (Gap: .030") Champion RJ19LM

Blade Bolt Torque: 35-40 ft. Ibs.

• The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal on the rear of the mower

housing. Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when
performing any maintenance.

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm

rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may

cause tire damage.

BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be

kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.

TO REMOVE BLADE

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with spark plug.

2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make
sure air filter and carburetor are up.

3. Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from

turning when removing blade bolt.

NOTE; Protect your hands with gloves

and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.

4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise.

5. Remove blade and attaching hard-
ware (bolt, lock washer and hardened
washer).

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and
check the key inside hub of blade
adapter. The key must be in good
condition to work properly. Replace
adapter if damaged.

TO REPLACE BLADE

1. Position the blade adapter on the
engine crankshaft. Be sure key in

adapter and crankshaft keyway are
aligned.

2. Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.

3. Be sure the trailing edge of blade

(opposite sharp edge) is up toward
the engine.

4. Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into

blade adapter and crankshaft.

5. Use block of wood between blade and

lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.

• The recommended tightening torque is

35-40 ft. Ibs.

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat

treated.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend

sharpening blade - but if you do, be sure
the blade is balanced.

Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will

cause eventual damage to lawn mower

or engine.

• The blade can be sharpened with a file

or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.

• To check blade balance, drive a nail

into a beam or wall. Leave about one
inch of the straight nail exposed. Place

center hole of blade over the head of
the nail. If blade is balanced, it should

remain in a horizontal position. If either
end of the blade moves downward,
sharpen the heavy end until the blade

is balanced. Crankshaft

Blade ada t keyway

Lockwasher

Blade

Blade 3rank
bolt Hardened shaft

washer Trailing edge Blade adapter12

GRASS CATCHER
(if purchased as an accessory)

• The grass catcher may be hosed with
water, but must be dry when used.

• Check your grass catcher often for
damage or deterioration. Through

normal use it will wear. If catcher

needs replacing, replace only with a

manufacturer approved replacement

catcher. Give the lawn mower model

number when ordering.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated
with API service classification SF-SJ.

Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating

temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

6O 8O

EFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils

(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in
cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils
will result in increased oil consumption
when used above 32°F. Check your
engine oil level more frequently to avoid
possible engine damage from running

low on oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of

operation or at least once a year if the

lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in

one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before

starting the engine and after each five (5)
hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug
securely each time you check the oil

level.

_ Drain plug

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Clean the element after every 25 hours of
operation or every season. Replace the
air filter every 100 hours of operation or
every season, whichever occurs first.

Service air cleaner more often under
dusty conditions.

TO CLEAN AIR FILTER ELEMENT

1. Remove screw.

2. Remove air cleaner carefully to
prevent dirt from entering carburetor.

3. Take air cleaner apart and clean air
filter element.

4. Wash filter element in liquid detergent
and water.

5. Wrap filter element in cloth and
squeeze dry.

6. Lightly coat filter element with clean
engine oil. Squeeze in towel to

remove excess oil. Do not saturate.

7. Reassemble parts and put back on
carburetor.

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with spark plug.

2. Be sure lawn mower is on level
surface.

NOTE: Oil will drain more freely when

warm. Catch oil in a suitable container.

3. Remove bottom oil drain plug.

4. After oil has drained completely,
replace oil drain plug and tighten

securely.

5. Fill engine with oil. (See "ADD OIL" in
the Operation section of this manual).

6. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.

ASSEMBLE SO LIP

EXTENDS OVER

EDGEOF
AIR CLEANER
BODY

LIP WILL FORM
PROTECTIVE
SEALWHEN

COVER IS ASSEMBLED

13

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it

could create a fire hazard and/or dam-

age.

SPARK PLUG

Replace spark plugs at the beginning of
each mowing season or after every 100

hours of operation, whichever occurs first.
Spark plug type and gap setting are

shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"

in Maintenance section of this manual.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance,

keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. Clean the underside of
your mower after each use.

_I,CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it

cannot come in contact with the spark
plug.

• Clean the underside of your lawn

mower by scraping to remove build-up
of grass and trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.

• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.

• We do not recommend using a garden
hose to clean lawn mower unless the

electrical system, muffler, air filter and
carburetor are covered to keep water

out. Water in engine can result in
shortened engine life.

AWARNING: To avoid serious injury,
before performing any service or adjust-

ments:

1. Release control bar and stop engine.

2. Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.

3. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place where it cannot come
in contact with plug.

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in

the Operation section of this manual.

REAR DEFLECTOR

The rear deflector, attached between the

rear wheels of your mower, is provided to
minimize the possibility that objects will

be thrown out of the rear of the mower
into the operator's mowing position. If the

deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.

DISCHARGE GUARD

The discharge guard, attached to the
discharge opening of your lawn mower, is

provided to prevent the possibility of
injury resulting from objects being thrown

out of the discharge opening into the
operator mowing position. If the discharge

guard becomes damaged, it should be

replaced.

ENGINE

ENGINE SPEED

Your engine speed has been factory set.
Do not attempt to increase engine speed
or it may result in personal injury. If you
believe that the engine is running too fast
or too slow, take your lawn mower to a
Sears or other qualified service center for

repair and adjustment.

CARBURETOR

Your carburetor is not adjustable. If your

engine does not operate properly due to

suspected carburetor problems, take your

lawn mower to a Sears or other qualified
service center for repair and/or adjust-

ment.
IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the

engine governor, which is factory set for
proper engine speed. Overspeeding the

engine above the factory high speed
setting can be dangerous. If you think the

engine-governed high speed needs
adjusting, contact a Sears or other
qualified service center, which has proper
equipment and experience to make any

necessary adjustments.

14

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for

storage at the end of the season or if the

unit will not be used for 30 days or more.

LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is to be stored for a
period of time, clean it thoroughly, remove

all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a
clean, dry area.

1. Clean entire lawn mower (See
"CLEANING" in the Maintenance

section of this manual).

2. Lubricate as shown in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual.

3. Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws,
and pins are securely fastened.

Inspect moving parts for damage,

breakage and wear. Replace if

necessary.

4. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.

ENGINE

FUELSYSTEM

IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent

gum deposits from forming in essential
fuel system parts such as carburetor, fuel
filter, fuel hose, or tank during storage.

Also, alcohol blended fuels (called

gasohol or using ethanol or methanol)
can attract moisture which leads to

separation and formation of acids during

storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel

system of an engine while in storage.

1. Drain the fuel tank,

2. Start the engine and let it run until the
fuel lines and carburetor are empty.

• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner

products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.

• Use fresh fuel next season.

NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation of

fuel gum deposits during storage. Add
stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or

storage container. Always follow the mix

ratio found on stabilizer container, Run
engine at least 10 minutes after adding

stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach
the carburetor. Do not drain the gas tank

and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.

ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace

with clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in

the Maintenance section of this manual).

CYLINDER

1. Remove spark plug.

2. Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through
spark plug hole into cylinder.

3. Pull starter handle slowly a few times
to distribute oil.

4. Replace with new spark plug.

OTHER

• Do not store gasoline from one season

to another.

• Replace your gasoline can if your can

starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your
gasoline will cause problems.

• If possible, store your unit indoors and
cover it to protect it from dust and dirt.

• Cover your unit with a suitable protec-
tive cover that does not retain moisture.

Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot
breathe, which allows condensation to

form and will cause your unit to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are still warm.

A CAUTION: Never store the lawn mower
with gasoline in the tank inside a building

where fumes may reach an open flame or

spark. Allow the engine to cool before
storing in any enclosure.

1R

TROUBLESHOOTING - See appropriate section in manual unless directed
to a Sears Service Center.

PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION

Does not start 1, Dirty air filter. 1. Clean/replace air filter.

2. Out of fuel.

3. Stale fuel.

4. Water in fuel.

5. Spark plug wire is

disconnected.

6. Bad spark plug.

7. Loose blade or broken
blade adapter.

8. Control bar in released
position.

9. Control bar defective.

10. Fuel valve lever (if so

equipped) in OFF position.

2. Fill fuel tank.

3. Drain tank and refill with
fresh, clean fuel.

4. Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refill tank

with fresh gasoline.

5. Connect wire to plug.

6.

Replace spark plug.

7.

Tighten blade bolt or

replace blade adapter.

8.

Depress control bar to
handle.

9. Replace control bar.

10.Turn fuel valve lever

to the ON position.

1R

TROUBLESHOOTING - See appropriate section in manual unless directed

to a Sears Service Center.

PROBLEM

CAUSE

CORRECTION

Loss of power

Poor cut -
uneven

Excessive

vibration

Starter rope
hard to pull

1. Rear of housing or blade

dragging in heavy grass.

2. Cutting too much grass.

3. Dirty air filter.

4. Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.

5. Too much oil in engine.

6. Walking speed too fast.

1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Wheel heights uneven.

3. Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.

1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

.

Engine flywheel brake is
on when control bar is

released.

2.

Bent engine crankshaft.

3.

Blade adapter broken.

4.

Blade dragging in grass.

1. Set to "Higher Cut" position.

2. Set to "Higher Cut"
position.

3. Clean/replace air filter.

4. Clean underside of mower
housing.

5. Check oil level.

6. Cut at slower walking
speed.

1. Replace blade. Tighten
blade bolt.

2. Set all wheels at same
height.

3. Clean underside of
mower housing.

1. Replace blade. Tighten
blade bolt.

2. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service center.

1. Depress control bar to
upper handle before

pulling starter rope.

2. Contact a Sears or other
qualified service center.

3. Replace blade adapter.

4. Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface.

Grass catcher 1. Cutting height too low. 1. Raise cutting height.
notfilUng(ifso 2. Lift on blade worn off. 2. Replace blade.
equipped) 3. Catcher not venting air. 3. Clean grass catcher.

Hard to push 1. Raise cutting height.1. Grass is too high or wheel

height is too low.

2. Rear of housing or blade
dragging in heavy grass.

3. Grass catcher too full.

4. Handle height position not
right for you.

2. Raise rear of mower housing
one (1) setting higher.

3. Empty grass catcher.

4. Adjust handle height to
suit.

17

ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NUMBER 944.362010

39

14

22

11

12

\

21

2O

2O

24

24

f

19 _ 23

21 _ 22

22

33

35

13

ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NUMBER 944.362010

KEY PART
NO. NO.

1 86902
2 179585

3 750097

4 172146X479
5 63601

7 169711X479
8 163799
9 7435O424

10 86899X004

(.D 11 66426

12 137009
13 700839)(479

14 140541

16 87584X004

17 851201X004
18 53847
19 752052

20 67609
21 700263
22 136624

23 107339X

DESCRIPTION

Control Bar
RopeGuide
Screw, Hex Washer Head,
Self-tapping #10-24 x 1/2

LowerHandle
Hex Locknut 1/4-20

Upper Handle
Engine Zone Control Cable

Hex Head Screw 1/4-20 x 1-1/2
Up-Stop Bracket

WireTie
Hex Head Bolt 3/8-16 x 3/4

Front Baffle
Rear Skirt
Deflector Bracket
Engine Washer

Fiat Washer
Discharge Guard

Shoulder Bolt
Wheal Assembty

Wheel Spacer
Danger Decal

KEY PART

NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

24 55611 Washer
26 61537 Washer

27 132010 Flange Locknut

28 74760412 Hex Head Screw 1/4
29 751592 Hex Leaknut 3/8-16
30 150406 Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1

31 132004 Hex Nut 1/4-20
33 181940 Housing

34 850977 Blade Adapter
35 850972 Blade 20"

36 851074 Washer(Hardened)
37 850263 Helical Lock Washer

38 851084 Hex Head Machine Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 Gr. 8
39 - - - Engine, Bdggs & Stratton, Model Number

9E902-0214-B1 (See Breakdown)

40 128415 Pop Rivets

41 750634 Screw

- - 162300 Warning Decal (Not Shown)

- - 181937 Owner's Manual (English)
o- 181938 Owner's Manual (French)

NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S, inches.

1 inch = 25.4 mm

BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 9E902-0214-B1

] 1058 OWNER'S MANUAL I

524

83__

_ 524_

I 358 GASKET SET

190_ 190A_

670

BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 9E902-O214-B1

901

973

188 _22_

393_ 39ol

612

617

745A_

7451

s29_ 772T

365

729_3

209 J-- 616

925

334_

I 851

332

621

615 °

I 1036 LABEL-EMISSION I

65y

592 ® 58_

6o_

689

1 ._.m

37A

3O4

3O5_

455_ 469_

73(

23

1276

37

21

BRIGGS & STRATTON 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 9E902-0214-B1

K_-Y PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

1 697401 Cylinder Assembly 337 802592

2 399269 Bushing 356 692390
3 299819 ° OilSeal 358 298989

4 697412 Engine Sump 363 19069
5 690386 Cylinder Head 365 692200

7 692288 Cylinder Head Gasket 383 89838
8 495785 Breather Assy (Includes Gasket) 390 6918,39

9 695890 Breather Gasket 393 691837
10 691666 Screw (Breather Assembly) 394 495770

11 691245 BreatherTube 404 690272
12 692218 • Crankcase Gasket 455 691236

(,015" Thick, Standard) 456 692299
270895 • Crankcase Gasket (.005" Thick) 459 281505
270896 • Crankcase Gasket (.009" Thick) 469 694420

13 691697 Screw (Cylinder Head) 505 691251

15 691680 C)ilDrein Plug 523 691913

16 691475 Crankshaft 524 691876
19 293709 Bushing 529 692189

20 391483 • OilSeal 534 691417
22 691662 Screw(Engine Sump) 535 272235

23 692009 Flywheel 536 493492
24 222698 Flywheel Key 562 92613

25 498668 Piston Assembly 570 691911
26 498680 Ring Set 592 690800
27 691588 Piston Pin Lock 597 691696

28 298909 Piston Pin (Standard) 608 499706

298908 Piston Pin (.005" Oversize) 612 496046

29 294201 Connecting Rod(Standard) 616 697405

296079 ConnectingRod(.020"Undersize) 617 270344

32 94699 Screw (Connecting Rod) 621 692310

33 296676 Exhaust Valve 633 691321

34 296677 Intake Valve 635 66538
35 690520 Valve Spdng 670 6916,33

36 690520 Valve Spring 689 691855

37 691209 FlywheeIGuard 718 499047
37A 697403 FlywheelGuard 724 697478
40 692194 Valve Retainer 729 690586

45 691762 Valve Tappet 741 691805
46 691998 Cam Gear 745 691146

43 697799 Oil Slinger 745A 690859
48 - - - Replacement Engine 772 691t 11

10E902-0015-E1 (Short Block n/a) 851 493880

50 693446 Intake Manifold 869 211172
51 270345 ° Intake Gasket 870 211291

54 93485 Screw (intake Manifold) 871 231348
55 692144 Rewind Starter Housing 63709

58 692259 Starter Rope 913 494409
60 691915 Starter Rope Grip 922 692135
65 690837 Screw(Rewind Starter) 923 691487

73 691235 Rotating Screen 925 691349

90 697800 Carburetor 957 497929
97 697414 Throttle Shaft 973 694394

130 691190 Throttle Valve 976 494408
163 271139 ° AirCleanerGasket 1036 695108

180 494406 FueITank 1058 273690

188 94786 Screw (Control Bracket) 1210 499901

190 692198 Screw(FueITank) 1211 499901
190A 691697 Screw(FuelTank) 1276 691002

202 697407 Link-Mechanical Governor

209 697797 Spdng-Govemor

222 697796 Brecket-Contml
227 697402 Governor Control Lever

300 394569 Muffler (Lo Tone)

304 697795 Blower Housing
305 692198 Screw (Blower Housing)

332 690662 Nut(Flywheel)

333 496914 Armature-Magneto
334 690482 Screw (Magneto Armature)

K]EY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

RPM Settings: Low Speed: 1900-2100

Included in Engine Gasket Set, Key No, 358

NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches

1 inch = 25.4 mm

Sparkplug

StopWire
Gasket Set

FlywheelPuller
Screw(Carburetor)

SparkPlugWrench
ChokeDiaphragmSpring

CarburetorScreen

CarburetorDiaphragm
Washer

FlywheelCup
SpringRetainer

RatchetPawl
RotatingTrimRing

Nut(GovernorControlLever)
Dipstick

O RingSeal(DipstickTube)
Grommet

Screw(AirCleaner)

AirFilter

AirCleaner
Bolt(GovemorControlLever)

FoamElementSupport
Nut(RewindStarter)

Screw(RatchetPawl)

RewindStartsr
PickupTube

GovernorCrenk
O RingSeal(IntakeManifold)

Stop Switch

Choke/Throttle Shaft Seal

SparkPlugBoot
Spacer
FdctionSpring
LocatingPin

RetainerSeal
WireClip

TimingGear

Screw(Brake)
Screw (Brake)
Screw(Linkage Cover)
SparkPlugTerminal

Valve Seat (Intake)

ValveSeat (Exhaust)

GuideBushing(Exhaust)

GuideBushing(Intake) •

Check ValveSeat

BrakeSpring
Brake Bracket

LinkageCover
FuelTankCap (Plastic)

TrimRing(PdmerBulb)

CarburetorPrimer
EmissionLabel

Owner'sManual

Pulley/Spring Assembly (Pulley)
Pulley/Spring Assembly (Spring)

Screw (Governor Lever Nut
Mounting Guard)

High Speed: 3000-3200

SERVICE NOTES

23

Just Call:

1-800-4-MY-HOME ®

(1-800-469-4663)

24 hoursa day,7 days a week

For the repairof majorbrandappliancesInyour own home...

no matterwho made it, no matterwhosoldit!

For your nearestSears Parts and Service location,

to bring in productslike vacuums, lawn equipmentand electronics.

For Sears Parts & Service, toorderthe replacementparts,

accessoriesand owner'smanualsthat you need to do-it-yourself.

www.sears.c8

To purchaseor inquire about a Sears Maintenance Agreement,call:

1-800-361-6665

9 a.m. - 8 p.m. EST, Mort.- Fri,,4 p.m. Sat.

!

Pourservice en franq,ais:

1-800-LE-FOYER Mc

(1-800-533-6937)

www.sears.ca

®/TM Trademarks of Sesrs, Roeb_x:kand Co. used under license by Sears Canada
_c I_ Marque de commerce / d_po_ de Seam, Roebuck and Ca. uti_lsdeen vedu d'une llce_,e de Seam Canada O Sears

....!iiii!i:iiii_iiii;

181937 Rev. 1 03.07.02 BY Printed in U.S.A.